Setsubun (Feb. 3), "the parting of the seasons," occurs on the day prior to the first day of spring. During the evening of Setsubun, one can here people shouting, "Out with the ogre! In with happiness!" while tossing soy beans in and around their homes. It is also customary for one to eat a number of soy beans equal to one's age. This is to ensure good health for the following year.

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